Civic Engagement & Social Change Certificate

What is it?
The Certificate in Civic Engagement and Social Change is an academic credential for Duke undergraduate students interested in deepening their understanding of social issues by integrating coursework with community-based experiences. Students can design learning and experiences around an issue and develop relationships with faculty and community mentors. Students will emerge from the certificate with strategies for engaging with social issues, competence in navigating diverse communities and clarity around possible career paths.

Why civic engagement and social change?
The goal of the program is to develop students’ capacity to effect social change in intentional, ethical and sustained ways. Students will think critically about volunteer efforts and change movements while developing the skills to tackle societal challenges using different approaches. An important aspect of the certificate is to ensure students are well-equipped to become engaged citizens and ethical leaders throughout their lives.

Who is it for?
The CESC is for Duke undergraduate students of all majors and backgrounds who want to examine what it means to be civically responsible and actively engaged in their community while gaining the skill set necessary to effect social change after Duke.

Interested in applying or learning more?
Apply to the CESC Certificate program here.
Sign up for the CESC mailing list here.
For more detailed information about the certificate and the application process, visit the Program in Education.